QUICK SUMMARY
Linda English, 64, credits roller skating with transforming her life, offering joy, community, and fitness. Skating at Golden Gate Park's Skatin' Place twice a week, she finds solace and connection, especially after losing her husband to cancer two years ago. The non-competitive skating community in San Francisco embraces self-expression and freedom.
Linda English, 64, picked up roller skating again on her 50th birthday, and now skates at Skatin' Place in Golden Gate Park two to three times a week. She describes the activity as transformative, providing joy, community, and fitness. After losing her husband to cancer two years ago, skating became a crucial outlet for her grief, allowing her to feel okay as soon as her skates were on. The San Francisco skating community is celebrated for its non-competitive nature and acceptance of unique self-expression, with participants often dressing in extravagant outfits. On a recent chilly weekday, English and her friend experienced a private skating session, highlighting the mental escape that comes with the activity. English founded the SF Rollergirls and participates in skateboarding at local parks, illustrating her deepening engagement with skating. She believes that roller skating unlocks a magical world, bringing happiness that everyone should experience. The vibrant atmosphere at Skatin' Place, especially during weekends, reflects the joy and connection that skating fosters among its community members.